7. Genii (known also as djinn) are supernatural spirits who are portrayed throughout literature and movies in countless ways from benevolent guardians to demonic tricksters. In this book the antagonistic Genius is depicted by Giaour, who tempts and ultimately leads Vathek into Eblis’s underground realm, along the way demanding fifty children to devour. However in the book there are also benevolent Genii, such as the one who rescues Gulchenrouz and bestows upon him perpetual childhood. Why is it important to show the differences of alignment within this mythical race?

8. A literary theme is a main idea that a story presents, whether directly (or repeatedly) as a “major theme” or indirectly (or briefly) as a “minor theme.” Vathek has numerous literary themes such as pride precipitating a downfall, the inequity of social order, the role of motherhood, etc. What are some other themes you can identify within this book?

9. Consider the adage: “Absolute power corrupts absolutely.” For Vathek, who possessed seemingly insatiable appetites along with unchecked power, the story’s ending seemed somewhat preordained. In terms both of a cautionary tale and by the certainty that the magnitude of his mounting transgressions can only, eventually, overwhelm him, could this book have ended any other way than by retribution against his atrocious deeds? If his power had been checked or weakened early on, could that have ultimately saved him?

10. Vathek is categorized as a Gothic novel, although it is set in Oriental culture rather than the customary backdrop of castle, graveyard, church, or other locale of medieval-inspired architecture. Rather the classification comes more from the induction of a sense of terror for the reader as well as the emphasis on the supernatural. What do you consider are some of the most memorable or noteworthy supernatural elements in this story? Do you think each was needed as part of the plot or were they merely to populate and accentuate a tale of mystical journey?

11. Vathek and company set out on a great journey, both literally and metaphorically, to discover the palace of subterranean fire (the domain of Eblis), where they expect to discover the secrets of the universe. How important to you is it to travel to new places and discover unfamiliar things? How far would you travel to obtain something you desire?

12. This book presents a view of religious “indifference,” meaning Mahomet, as the Holy Prophet of Allah, witnesses Vathek’s pride and excesses, but chooses not to intervene, stating to the Genii, “Let us leave him to himself… let us see to what lengths his folly and impiety will carry him.” Do you think this is for the best, to let individuals make their own way without interference (or unasked advice) from others, or should one with knowledge and means involve themselves in other people’s lives, even if without invitation, if such act is reasoned to be charitable?

13. Vathek blames his mother for his final punishment: “…the principles by which Carathis perverted my youth have been the sole cause of my perdition!” To what degree is he right, that she has driven the course of his life to this inexorable conclusion? To what degree is he wrong, that Vathek is responsible for his own choices?